Translating Emergency Knowledge for Kids (TREKK): using research evidence to improve outcomes for children and families in emergency departments across Canada

In Canada, up to 85% of children who need emergency care are treated in general emergency departments (ED) [ 1 ] that care for children and adults. Children have unique healthcare needs due to physiological, development and psychological differences. ED teams in these general ED settings have identified gaps in accessing pediatric-specific training and resources, including opportunities for hands-on practice during courses or training experiences [ 2 , 3 , 4 ]. Moreover, they have expressed concerns in maintaining pediatric expertise and competencies particularly if they do not often treat children or certain pediatric conditions [ 2 , 4 ]. These concerns are well-founded; the gap in pediatric care between pediatric and general EDs has been associated with a disparity in health outcomes [ 5 ]. Efforts are needed to improve ED pediatric readiness, and ensuring children have access to timely, well-resourced, and effective emergency care [ 6 ].